Direct Support Specialist - Empower Community Living

Central Aroostook Association; Presque Isle (ME); Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

Central Aroostook Association is seeking a Direct Support Professional to provide direct care in Work Programs, Residential Homes, Day Programs or Integrated Community settings. You will support adults with developmental disabilities in daily living, social development, employment and independence, including transport to activities and personal care.

The role emphasizes safety, dignity, and respect, with duties varying by program location and required trainings to maintain certifications.

Qualifications

• At least one year of prior experience working with adults with developmental disabilities.
• Ability and willingness to manage emotional or physical emergencies.
• Ability to work on a team, accept direction, and contribute ideas.
• Ability to safely accompany individuals into the community.
• Ability to assist individuals with all aspects of toileting and hygiene.
• Ability to pass all required trainings.

Responsibilities

• Provides daily supervision and training to assist consumers in meeting objectives.
• Transports consumers to community activities and supervises as needed.
• Protects health, safety and wellbeing of consumers, including de-escalation or restraints when necessary.
• Provides personal care assistance including daily living skills and hygiene.
• Administers medications as needed and documents per regulations.
• Uses wheelchairs and lifts to transfer consumers per protocols.
• Supports consumers with difficult behaviors.
• Notifies supervisor of issues not in the plan.
• Maintains a clean work environment and assists with vehicle/walkway upkeep.
• Completes progress notes on consumer objectives and behavior; attends trainings.

Skills

Emergency management

Team collaboration

Behavior support

Personal care assistance

Transporting and community access

Safety protocols

Education

High School Diploma or GED

CRMA certification (within 6 months)

CPR/First-Aid (within 3 months)

SafetyCare (within 3 months)

Direct Support Professional (DSP) (within 6 months)

Valid Maine Driver's License

Job description

Central Aroostook Association is seeking a Direct Support Professional to provide direct care in Work Programs, Residential Homes, Day Programs or Integrated Community settings. You will support adults with developmental disabilities in daily living, social development, employment and independence, including transport to activities and personal care.

The role emphasizes safety, dignity, and respect, with duties varying by program location and required trainings to maintain certifications.